NSLTP- National Students Leadership Training Program -2019 was organized from 5th to 10th October in the Hyderabad archdiocese of the Telugu region. 34 students along with 4 animators from 5 different regions participated from around the country. Rev Fr Vijay Baretto, the diocesan chaplain of Delhi celebrated the inaugural mass along with the concelebrant Rev. Fr. Chetan Machado, national chaplain, and Rev. Fr. Richard John, the diocesan chaplain formally inaugurated the program. This was followed by an orientation and group dynamics for the students in order to mingle with each other.
The following days began with the Holy Eucharist and inter-religious prayer conducted by the students. They were also taken for an exposure in four groups to 4 different places to see the reality of the world outside. The students observed carefully and presented their reports beautifully in different ways such as charts, street play and skits. A session on the methodology - see, judge and act was also organised to make students know more about YCS and its importance and why and how we should implement it in our daily lives.
There were sessions on the national theme and thrusts which is 'young students for youthful life - self-identity, safe school and new society,' human dignity, promotion of life, leadership and spirituality, etc. These sessions were conducted by Fr. Chetan, Mr. Leo Joseph, Mr. James Sylvester and Mr. Percival Holt. Students were also delighted and inspired when the animators shared their beautiful YCS journey. Ms. Jesvita, the former National Convenor and the present national coordinator and Mr. John Siddham, former IYCS Secretary-General and present member of the IYCS advisory board also shared their rich experience in the movement. Bishop Jayarao Polimera, Bishop of Eluru who is also the regional chairman of the Telugu region was present during one of the days and he also addressed the students.
On the concluding day, the students were felicitated by the national chaplain. Indeed it was an enriching experience for all the participants who were very active and keen to know and do more towards the movement.